Pivotable reel assembly

ABSTRACT

A pivotable reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assembly can include a frame comprising a base and an elongate mounting portion configured to pivot relative to the base about a pivot axis. The elongate mounting portion can include a proximal portion coupled with the base, a distal portion, and an intermediate portion between the proximal and distal portions. A spool drum can be connected with the intermediate portion of the elongate mounting portion. The spool drum can be configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element, the rotational axis generally transverse to the pivot axis. A wheel can be connected to the distal portion of the elongate mounting portion and configured to roil about the pivot axis. The distal portion can position the wheel along a transverse axis that is generally transverse to the rotational axis and the pivot axis.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 62/409,300, filed on Oct. 17, 2016, and to U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/431,740, filed on Dec. 8, 2016, the entire contentsof each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entiretyand for all purposes.

BACKGROUND Field

The field relates to a pivotable reel assembly, and in particular, for apivotable reel assembly for spooling and unspooling a linear element.

Description of the Related Art

Linear elements (such as hoses for conducting fluid, electrical cords,air hoses, etc.) can be cumbersome and difficult to manage. Mechanicalreels have been designed to help spool hoses onto a drum-like spoolapparatus. Some conventional reels are manually operated, requiring theuser to physically rotate the reel, or drum, to spool the hose. This canbe tiresome and time-consuming for users, especially when the hose is ofa substantial length. Moreover, conventional reels may be mounted to afixed structure, such that the reel does not move in response to theuser moving to a different location. Accordingly, there remains acontinuing need for improved reel assemblies.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assembly caninclude a frame comprising a base and an elongate mounting portionconfigured to pivot relative to the base about a pivot axis. Theelongate mounting portion can comprise a proximal portion coupled withthe base, a distal portion, and an intermediate portion between theproximal and distal portions. A spool drum can be connected with theintermediate portion of the elongate mounting portion. The spool drumcan be configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspoola linear element, the rotational axis generally transverse to the pivotaxis. A wheel can be connected to the distal portion of the elongatemounting portion and configured to roll about the pivot axis. The distalportion can position the wheel along a transverse axis that is generallytransverse to the rotational axis and the pivot axis.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assemblycan include a frame and a spool drum connected with the frame. The spooldrum can be configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool andunspool a linear element. A spooling support can be coupled with theframe and offset from the spool drum along a transverse axis that isgenerally transverse to the rotational axis. The spooling support can beconfigured to translate along a spooling support axis generally parallelto and offset from the rotational axis. A motor can be operablyconnected with the spool drum to cause the spool drum to rotate aboutthe rotational axis and can be operably connected with the spoolingsupport to cause the spooling support to translate about the spoolingsupport axis.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assemblycan include a frame having a base and a mounting portion configured topivot relative to the base about a pivot axis. A spool drum can beconnected with the mounting portion of the frame. The spool drum can beconfigured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool alinear element, the rotational axis non-parallel with the pivot axis, Amotor can be operably connected with the spool drum to cause the spoolto rotate about the rotational axis. A motor controller can be inelectrical communication with the motor, the motor controller configuredto transmit control signals to the motor to control the operation of themotor.

In one embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assembly caninclude a frame comprising a base and an elongate mounting portionconfigured to pivot relative to the base about a pivot axis, theelongate mounting portion comprising a proximal portion coupled with thebase, a distal portion, and an intermediate portion between the proximaland distal portions. The reel assembly can include a spool drumconnected with the intermediate portion of the elongate mountingportion, the spool drum configured to rotate about a rotational axis tospool and unspool a linear element, the rotational axis generallytransverse to the pivot axis. The reel assembly can include a wheelconnected to the distal portion of the elongate mounting portion andconfigured to roll about the pivot axis, wherein the distal portionpositions the wheel along a transverse axis that is generally transverseto the rotational axis and the pivot axis.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assemblycan include a frame, and a spool drum connected with the frame, thespool drum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool andunspool a linear element. The reel assembly can include a spoolingsupport coupled with the frame and offset from the spool drum along atransverse axis that is generally transverse to the rotational axis, thespooling support configured to translate along a spooling support axisgenerally parallel to and offset from the rotational axis. The reelassembly can include a motor operably connected with the spool drum tocause the spool drum to rotate about the rotational axis and operablyconnected with the spooling support to cause the spooling support totranslate about the spooling support axis.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assemblycan include a frame having a base and a mounting portion configured topivot relative to the base about a pivot axis. The reel assembly caninclude a spool drum connected with the mounting portion of the frame,the spool drum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool andunspool a linear element, the rotational axis non-parallel with thepivot axis. The reel assembly can include a motor operably connectedwith the spool drum to cause the spool drum to rotate about therotational axis. The reel assembly can include a controller inelectrical communication with the motor, the controller configured totransmit control signals to the motor to control the operation of themotor.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assemblycan include a frame having a base and a mounting portion configured topivot relative to the base about a pivot axis. The reel assembly caninclude a spool drum connected with the mounting portion of the frame,the spool drum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool andunspool a linear element. The reel assembly can include a connectorconfigured to provide fluid or electrical communication with the linearelement along a connector axis, the connector positioned such that theconnector axis is aligned with the pivot axis.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assemblycan include a frame having a base and a mounting portion configured topivot relative to the base about a pivot axis, the base having a lowersurface that defines a lateral dimension of the base, the lower surfaceto be supported by a support surface during use of the reel assembly.The reel assembly can include a spool drum connected with the mountingportion of the frame, the spool drum configured to rotate about arotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element, the spool drumhaving a width along the rotational axis, the width of the spool drumless than the lateral dimension of the base.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assemblycan include a frame having a base and a mounting portion configured topivot relative to the base about a pivot axis, the base having a lowersurface to be supported by a support surface during use of the reelassembly, wherein, at least during use of the reel assembly, the basedoes not translate relative to the support surface and is not requiredto penetrate the support surface. The reel assembly can include a spooldrum connected with the mounting portion of the frame, the spool drumconfigured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool alinear element.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assemblycan include a frame comprising a base and a mounting portion. The reelassembly can include a spool drum connected with the mounting portion ofthe frame, the spool drum configured to rotate about a rotational axisto spool and unspool a linear element. The reel assembly can include afirst connector connected to the frame, the first connector configuredto provide fluid or electrical communication with the linear elementalong a first connector axis non-parallel to the rotational axis. Thereel assembly can include a second connector configured to provide fluidor electrical communication with the linear element along a secondconnector axis parallel to the rotational axis. The reel assembly caninclude a conduit having a first end portion connected to the firstconnector and a second end portion connected to the second connector, atleast a portion of the conduit extending non-parallel relative to thefirst connector axis, the conduit being bent so as to pass through oraround the mounting portion of the frame to provide fluid or electricalcommunication between the first and second connectors.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assemblycan include a frame comprising a base, a mounting portion, and a bearingdisposed between the base and the mounting portion, the mounting portionbeing configured to pivot relative to the bearing and the base about apivot axis, the bearing comprising an annular ridge disposed about thepivot axis, the annular ridge providing a bearing surface along whichthe mounting portion slides when the mounting portion pivots about thepivot axis. The reel assembly can include a spool drum connected withthe mounting portion of the frame, the spool drum configured to rotateabout a rotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assemblycan include a frame comprising a base and a mounting portion, the basehaving a stored profile with a first lateral dimension and a deployedprofile with a second lateral dimension, the second lateral dimensionlarger than the first lateral dimension. The reel assembly can include aspool drum connected with the mounting portion of the frame, the spooldrum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool alinear element.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assemblycan include a frame and a spool drum connected with the frame, the spooldrum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool alinear element. The reel assembly can include a motor operably connectedwith the spool drum to cause the spool drum to rotate about therotational axis. The reel assembly can include a controller inelectrical communication with the motor, the controller configured totransmit control signals to the motor to control the operation of themotor, the controller having processing circuitry configured to placethe reel assembly in a sleep mode when the reel assembly is inactive.The reel assembly can include a battery to supply electrical power tothe controller, wherein, when the reel assembly is in the sleep mode,the controller is placed in a limited power mode that draws little or nocurrent from the battery. The controller can be configured to detect asignal from the motor indicative of user activity, the controllerconfigured to move the reel assembly from the sleep mode to an activemode based on the detected signal.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assemblycan include a frame and a spool drum connected with the frame, the spooldrum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool alinear element. The reel assembly can include a wear ring assemblycoupled with the frame and offset from the spool drum along a transverseaxis that is generally transverse to the rotational axis, the wear ringassembly comprising an opening through which the linear element is to bedisposed, the wear ring assembly comprising a wear ring having a firstportion configured to removably engage with a second portion to enclosethe linear element therebetween.

All of these embodiments are intended to be within the scope of theinvention herein disclosed. These and other embodiments will becomereadily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detaileddescription having reference to the attached figures, the invention notbeing limited to any particular preferred embodiment(s) disclosed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic rear perspective view of a reel assembly,according to various embodiments.

FIG. 2 is a schematic front perspective view of the reel assembly shownin FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a schematic top plan view of the reel assembly shown in FIGS.1 and 2.

FIG. 4 is a schematic front elevational view of the reel assembly shownin FIGS. 1-3.

FIG. 5 is a schematic left side elevational view of the reel assemblyshown in FIGS. 1-4.

FIG. 6 is a schematic right side elevational view of the reel assemblyshown in FIGS. 1-5.

FIG. 7A is a front perspective view of a reel assembly similar to thereel assembly of FIGS. 1-6.

FIG. 7B is a rear perspective view of the reel assembly of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7C illustrates a connector used to connect to a linear element.

FIG. 8 illustrates a spool configured for use in various embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a schematic side view of a reel assembly according to variousembodiments.

FIG. 10A is a schematic front, right perspective view of a reel assemblyaccording to various embodiments.

FIG. 10B is a schematic front view of the reel assembly of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 10C is a schematic front, left perspective view of the reelassembly of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 11A is a schematic right elevational view of the reel assembly ofFIG. 10A.

FIG. 11B is a schematic left elevational view of the reel assembly ofFIG. 10A.

FIGS. 12A and 12B are exploded views of various components of the reelassembly of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 13A is a schematic rear perspective view of the reel assembly ofFIG. 10A.

FIG. 13B is a magnified schematic rear perspective view of the reelassembly of FIG. 13A.

FIG. 14A is a top perspective view of a disc bearing used in conjunctionwith the reel assembly of FIGS. 10A-13B.

FIG. 14B is a top plan view of the disc bearing of FIG. 14A.

FIG. 14C is a schematic side sectional view of the disc bearing of FIGS.14A-14B.

FIG. 15 is a schematic top plan view of a reel assembly, according toanother embodiment.

FIGS. 16A and 16B are schematic top plan views of a base thatincorporates pivoting extensions for improved stability.

FIGS. 17A and 17B are schematic top plan views of a base thatincorporates sliding extensions for improved stability.

FIG. 18 is a schematic system diagram of a reel assembly, according tovarious embodiments.

FIG. 19A is a schematic perspective exploded view of a wear ringassembly, according to various embodiments.

FIG. 19B is a schematic perspective exploded view of a wear ringassembly, according to another embodiment.

FIG. 19C is a schematic perspective view of the wear ring assembly ofFIG. 19A in an assembled configuration.

FIG. 20A is a schematic perspective view of a wear ring assemblyincorporated into a housing, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 20B is a schematic perspective view of a wear ring assemblyincorporated into a housing, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 20C is a schematic perspective view of a wear ring assemblyintegrated with a housing that is coupled to a spooling support.

FIG. 20D is a schematic perspective view of a wear ring assembly,incorporated into a housing, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 21 is a schematic front view of a reel assembly that incorporates awear ring assembly, according to various embodiments.

FIG. 22 is a schematic right side view of the reel assembly of FIG. 21,with the linear element in a spooled or stored configuration.

FIG. 23 is a schematic right side view of the reel assembly of FIG. 21,with the linear element in a partially unspooled configuration.

FIG. 24 is a schematic perspective view of the reel assembly of FIG. 22.

FIG. 25A is a schematic perspective view of a reel assembly, accordingto another embodiment.

FIG. 25B is a schematic perspective view of the reel assembly of FIG.25A, with vertical wheel segments installed on the frame.

FIG. 25C is a top plan view of the reel assembly shown in FIGS. 25A-25B.

FIG. 25D is a schematic perspective view of an example vertical wheelsegment and wheel.

FIG. 26A is a schematic perspective view of a reel assembly, accordingto various embodiments.

FIG. 26B is a schematic view of a switch for powering the reel assemblyon and/or off.

FIG. 26C is a front perspective view of a gear assembly for spoolingand/or unspooling a linear element.

FIG. 26D is a rear perspective view of the gear assembly.

FIG. 26E is a front perspective view of the gear assembly with planetarygears omitted for ease of illustration.

FIG. 26F is a schematic left perspective view of a reel assembly, havinga plurality of wheels.

FIG. 26G is a schematic right perspective view of the reel assembly ofFIG. 26F.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various embodiments disclosed herein relate to a reel assemblyconfigured to support, spool, and/or unspool a linear element, such as awater hose, an air hose, an electrical cord, etc. In some embodiments,the reel assembly can comprise a frame comprising a base and an elongatemounting portion configured to pivot relative to the base about a pivotaxis. The elongate mounting portion can include a proximal portioncoupled with the base, a distal portion, and an intermediate portionbetween the proximal and distal portions. A spool can be connected withthe intermediate portion of the elongate mounting portion. The spool canbe configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool alinear element, with the rotational axis being generally transverse tothe pivot axis. A wheel can be connected to the distal portion of theelongate mounting portion. The wheel can be configured to roll about thepivot axis. The distal portion of the mounting portion can position thewheel along a transverse axis that is generally transverse to therotational axis and the pivot axis. The wheel can rotate about thetransverse axis so as to cause the wheel to roll along a pathwaydisposed about the pivot axis.

Beneficially, therefore, the reel assembly can pivot about a fixed pivotpoint, e.g., a pivot axis that does not translate during operation ofthe reel assembly. In various embodiments, the base of the reel assemblycan be wider than the spool and can be dimensioned so as to resistoverturning moments due to a user pulling the linear element and/or dueto the weight of the reel assembly. In some embodiments, the base neednot penetrate a support surface (e.g., the ground) during operation.Moreover, in various embodiments, the reel assembly can compriseconduits and connectors that enable the user to operate the linearelement (e.g., a hose or cord) without tangling from an input line.Advantageously, the base of the reel assembly can comprise a connectorhaving a connector axis aligned with the pivot axis. A conduit canconnect to the connector, and can be routed around or through the frameto a second connector at an end of the spool drum. A conduit in thespool drum can provide communication with a proximal end of the linearelement connected to the spool drum.

In some embodiments, a motor can be operably connected with the spool tocause the spool to rotate about the rotational axis. A motor controllercan be in electrical communication with the motor. The motor controllercan be configured to transmit control signals to the motor to controlthe operation of the motor. In some embodiments, the reel assembly caninclude a spooling support coupled with the frame and offset from thespool along a transverse axis that is generally transverse to therotational axis. The spooling support can be configured to translatealong a spooling support axis generally parallel to and offset from therotational axis. In various embodiments, the motor can be operablyconnected with the spooling support to cause the spooling support totranslate about the spooling support axis.

Beneficially, the embodiments disclosed herein can utilize a motor andmotor controller to automatically spool and/or unspool a linear element,such as a hose, cord, etc. In various embodiments, for example, acontroller can be configured to automatically shut off the supply ofwater to a water hose and can automatically spool (e.g., retract) thehose along the reel. In various embodiments, a controller can beconfigured to automatically unspool a water hose and begin supplyingwater to the hose. In some embodiments, the controller can comprise atimer that automatically starts and/or shuts off the supply of waterafter a predetermined time period. In some embodiments, the reelassembly can be controlled by a handheld remote control unit thatcommunicates with the controller and/or motor controller over a wirelessnetwork.

In some embodiments; the reel assembly can comprise a power switch thatcan be used to turn the reel assembly on and/or off when pressed by auser. The reel assembly can also comprise a wind-in switch that, whenpressed by the user, automatically turns off the supply of fluid (e.g.,liquid or gas) or current to the linear element (whether the linearelement comprises a fluid hose or an electrical cord) and automaticallywinds in the linear element to spool the linear element about the spool.In various embodiments, when the reel assembly is turned OFF by theuser, the battery may be preserved. In various embodiments, when thereel assembly is turned ON by the user and is inactive for apredetermined period of time, a controller can place the reel assemblyinto a sleep mode to conserve battery power.

In the sleep mode, the controller may not communicate with externaldevices (such as a handheld remote control) over a communicationsnetwork (such as a wireless network), which can significantly conservebattery power and lengthen battery life. When a user pulls the hose whenthe reel assembly is in sleep mode, the force induces a backelectromotive force (EMF) in the motor, which sends an alert signal tothe controller indicative of the back EMF. The controller can compriseprocessing electronics (which may be active processing components and/orpassive electronic components) that can determine whether the userwishes to use the reel assembly based on the alert signal. If the alertsignal indicates that the user wishes to use the reel assembly, then thecontroller can activate the reel assembly into an active state foroperation by the user.

Moreover, the embodiments disclosed herein can beneficially enable theuser to pivot the reel assembly about a pivot axis that is non-parallelto (e.g., generally transverse to) the rotational axis of the spool. Forexample, the user may desire to direct a water hose (or other linearelement) along a different direction or orientation. The embodimentsdisclosed herein can comprise a wheel offset from a pivot axis such thatthe user can pull, push, or otherwise move a distal portion of a frameso as to cause the reel assembly to pivot relative to the pivot axis. Insome embodiments, the user can manually pivot the reel assembly aboutthe pivot axis. In other embodiments, a motor can automatically causethe reel assembly to pivot. In addition, the embodiments disclosedherein can advantageously enable the linear element (e.g., hose, cord,etc.) to spool uniformly across a lateral width of the spool. Forexample, a spooling support can translate along a spooling support axisthat is generally parallel to the rotational axis of the spool so as toevenly spool the linear element along the spool.

FIGS. 1-6 illustrate one embodiment of a reel assembly 1. For example,FIG. 1 is a schematic rear perspective view of the reel assembly 1. FIG.2 is a schematic front perspective view of the reel assembly 1 shown inFIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a schematic top plan view of the reel assembly 1 shownin FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 4 is a schematic front view of the reel assembly1 shown in FIGS. 1-3. FIG. 5 is a schematic left side view of the reelassembly 1 shown in FIGS. 1-4. FIG. 6 is a schematic right side view ofthe reel assembly 1 shown in FIGS. 1-5. The reel assembly can be used tosupport, reel and/or unreel a linear element that has a length larger(e.g., at least five times larger or at least ten times larger) than itswidth. For example, the reel assembly 1 shown in FIGS. 1-6 can be usedto reel and/or unreel a hose having a lumen through which a fluid canflow, e.g., a water hose, an air hose, etc. In other arrangements, thereel assembly 1 can be used to spool and/or unspool an electrical cordor other linear element.

The reel assembly 1 can comprise a frame 2 having a base 3 and anelongate mounting portion 4 extending from and/or otherwise coupled withthe base 3. The base 3 can comprise a relatively wide mounting surfacethat can rest on a support surface, such as the ground. In someembodiments, the base 3 can be supported on the support surface (e.g.,the ground) without any penetrating fasteners to secure the base 3 tothe support surface. In such arrangements, the base 3 can besufficiently wide so as to reduce overturning moments due to the weightof the components of the assembly 1. In other embodiments, the base 3may include one or a plurality of fasteners (such as stakes) to affixthe base 3 to the ground. In one embodiment, the base 3 can have agenerally circular shape. In other embodiments, the base 3 can haveother suitable shapes.

In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting portion 4 of the frame 2 cancomprise a pair of spaced apart, elongate arms 4 a, 4 b extending from aproximal portion 5 to a distal portion 7. Although a pair of arms 4 a, 4b is shown in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, only asingle elongate arm may be used. The proximal portion 5 can extendbetween and interconnect the pair of arms 4 a, 4 b and be pivotallycoupled with the base 3 such that the mounting portion 4 can pivot abouta pivot axis P relative to the base 3. Thus, the proximal portion 5 ofthe frame 2 can provide the pivoting connection to the base 3, such thatthe proximal portion 5 (and hence the frame can pivot relative to thebase 3, with the base 3 being generally stationary, during use. In theillustrated embodiment, the proximal portion 5 can be a planar piecewith a length that is smaller than the outer effective diameter of thebase 3. In other embodiments, the proximal portion 5 can be about thesame size and shape as the base, can be slightly smaller than the base3, or can be slightly larger than the base.

A spool drum 8 can be mounted to an intermediate portion 6 of themounting portion 4 disposed between the proximal 5 and distal portions7. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the spool drum 8 can berotatably coupled with the intermediate portion 6 such that the spooldrum 8 can rotate about a rotational axis R that is non-parallel with(e.g., generally transverse to) the pivot axis P. In the illustratedembodiment, the spool drum 8 is disposed (e.g., offset) relative to thepivot axis P such that the pivot axis P and the rotational axis R do notintersect. The spool drum 8 can comprise a first end piece 9 and asecond end piece 10 spaced apart along the rotational axis R. A spoolingsurface 11 can be defined between the first and second end pieces 9, 10.In operation, the spool drum 8 can rotate about the rotational axis R ina first direction (e.g., counterclockwise about the axis R asillustrated in FIG. 1) to spool the linear element (not shown) onto thespooling surface 11 of the spool drum 8. The spool can rotate about therotational axis R in a second opposite direction (e.g., clockwise aboutthe axis R as illustrated in FIG. 1) to unspool the linear element (notshown) from the spooling surface 11 of the spool drum 8. The end pieces9, 10 can assist in retaining the linear element on the spooling surface11.

The distal portion 7 of the mounting portion 4 can extend distally ofthe intermediate portion 6. In the illustrated embodiment, a bend 18 inthe mounting portion 4 can be defined at or near the intermediateportion 6 so as to angle the distal portion 7 relative to the proximalportion 5. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the distal portion 7 cancomprise a segment angled generally along a transverse axis T which isnon-parallel to (e.g., generally transverse to) the rotational axis Rand the pivot axis P. The distal portion 7 of the mounting portion 4 canalso comprise a horizontal segment 16 coupled with a vertical segment17. The horizontal and vertical segments 16, 17 can optionally beplanar, a width of the vertical segment 17 being smaller than a lengthof the horizontal segment 16. A wheel 12 can be rotatably coupled withthe vertical segment 17 of the distal portion 7. In the illustratedembodiment, the wheel 12 comprises two rollers parallel to one another,but it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the wheel 12 maycomprise only a single roller. The horizontal segment 16, the verticalsegment 17, and the wheel 12 can be dimensioned such that a lowermostportion of the wheel 12 contacts the support surface, e.g., thelowermost portion of the wheel 12 may be generally coplanar with alowermost portion of the base 3 in various arrangements. In oneembodiment, the wheel 12 can contact and roll on the support surface(e.g., ground surface) as the reel assembly 1 is pivoted about the pivotaxis P. In use, the pivot axis P may be generally fixed such that thepivot axis P does not translate along and/or tip relative to the supportsurface during use. For example, the weight of the reel assembly 1and/or the width of the base 3 may be configured to reduce or eliminatetranslation of the reel assembly 1 along the ground when subjected tonormal pulling forces on the linear element. In another embodiment, thewheel 12 can contact and roll on a track (e.g., circular track) disposedor implemented on the support surface.

As shown in FIGS. 2, 3, 5, and 6, the wheel 12 can be disposed along thetransverse axis T. For example, in the illustrated arrangement, thewheel 12 can be positioned such that the transverse axis T is positionedgenerally transverse to a major surface of the wheel 12. The pair of endpieces 9, 10 can define a corresponding pair of planes disposed parallelto the transverse axis T, with the wheel 12 disposed between thecorresponding pair of planes. The wheel 12 can rotate about thetransverse axis T so as to cause the reel assembly 1 to roll along apath disposed about the pivot axis P. In some embodiments, the user canmanually pull the distal portion 7 of the frame 2 (for example, bypulling a linear element transverse to the axis T) to as to cause thewheel 12 to roll about (and the mounting portion 4 and spool drum 8 topivot about) the pivot axis P. In other embodiments, a motor can beoperated to automatically cause the mounting portion 4 to pivot aboutthe pivot axis P and base 3, e.g. based on a sensed pulling direction bythe user.

In some embodiments, the reel assembly 1 can advantageously include aspooling support 13 coupled with the frame 2 and offset from the spooldrum 8. The spooling support 13 can cause the linear element to bespooled onto the spooling surface 11 of the spool drum 8 in a relativelyuniform manner, which can reduce tangling and kinking of the linearelement. For example, as shown in FIGS. 2, 3, 5, and 6, the spoolingsupport 13 can be disposed along the transverse axis T. As shown in FIG.2, for example, the spooling support 13 can comprise an opposing pair ofbearings 13 a, 13 b between which the linear element can extend. Thespooling support 13 can capture the linear element between the bearings13 a, 13 b during operation of the reel assembly 1. The spooling support13 can be configured to translate along a spooling support axis S thatis generally parallel to and offset from the rotational axis R. In someembodiments, a spooling actuator 23 can be configured to cause thespooling support 13 to translate along the spooling support axis S. Forexample, the spooling actuator 23 can comprise a screw or threadedmember that converts rotational movement to translational movement tomove the spooling support 13 along the axis S.

As shown in FIGS. 2-5, the reel assembly 1 can comprise a motor 19 thatmay be controlled by a motor controller (not shown). The motorcontroller can optionally be controlled via a remote control and/or oneor more user interface controls (e.g., control buttons) on the reelassembly 1. The motor 19 can comprise any suitable type of motor thatconverts an electrical input into mechanical motion. The motor 19 cancause a motor shaft (not shown) to rotate, which in turn can cause afirst gear 20 to rotate (see FIGS. 2-5). Rotation of the first gear 20can cause a second gear 22 (FIG. 3) to rotate, which in turn can cause athird gear 21 (see FIGS. 2 and 5) to rotate. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 5,for example, the third gear 21 can comprise a ring gear with teeth on aninner surface thereof. Rotation of the third gear 21 (induced by themotor 19) can cause the first end piece 9 and the spool drum 8 to rotateabout the rotational axis R to cause the linear element to spool and/orunspool from the spooling surface 11.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 3, rotation of the second gear 22 (inducedby the motor 19) can impart rotation to the spooling actuator 23. Forexample, in the illustrated embodiment, the second gear 22 can impartrotation to the spooling actuator 23 by way of a connecting element 24.In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting element 24 can comprise abelt that imparts rotation of the spooling actuator 23 uponcorresponding rotation of the second gear 22 and the motor 19. The beltcan comprise a loop of material disposed about a pin or bearing of thespooling actuator 23. Rotation of the spooling actuator 23 can cause thespooling support 13 to translate along the spooling support axis S. Forexample, as explained above, the spooling actuator 23 can comprise athreaded connector that causes translation of the spooling support 13when rotated. Beneficially, therefore, the motor 19 can cause the linearelement (not shown) to be automatically spooled and/or unspooled fromthe reel assembly 1, and can simultaneously or concurrently ensure thatthe linear element is uniformly distributed across the spooling surface11. The same motor 19 can be used to cause the spooling and/orunspooling rotation of the spool drum 8 about the rotational axis R, andthe translation of the spooling support 13 along the axis S that isparallel to and offset from the rotational axis R.

As shown in FIGS. 2-6, the reel assembly 1 can further include acontroller 25 configured to receive and/or transmit electrical signalsfrom and/or to a handheld remote control. Additional details of thecontroller 25 are provided below with respect to FIG. 18. In someembodiments, the controller 25 can comprise a wireless controller havingan antenna 49 in communication with processing electronics configured toprocess signals received from and/or transmitted to the handheld remotecontrol. In operation, the user can activate the handheld remote controlto actuate the motor controller and motor 19 to cause the linear elementto unspool from the spool drum 8. In embodiments that utilize a linearelement comprising a liquid or gas hose, the user can interact with thehandheld remote control to cause liquid or gas to flow through thelinear element at predetermined or desired flow rates and/or pressures.In some embodiments, the user can interact with the handheld remotecontrol to shut off the flow of liquid or gas through the linearelement, and can cause the linear element to retract and/or spool aboutthe spool drum 8. In some embodiments, a battery can also be coupled tothe frame 2 so as to provide power to the controller 25 and/or the motor19. It should be appreciated that, although the controller 25 isillustrated as being on the side of the vertical segment 17 nearer themotor 19, in other embodiments, the controller 25 can instead bedisposed on the opposite side of the vertical segment 17, e.g., oppositethe motor 19, Additional details of reel assemblies and their operationcan be found throughout US 2012/0168003, US 2016/0003400, US2014/0021283, US 2012/0267466, US 2013/0015284, US 2006/0266868, and US2006/0000936, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated byreference herein in their entirety and for all purposes. It should beappreciated that the disclosed embodiments can be utilized incombination with any of the features and functionalities provided in theaforementioned disclosures.

Due to the pivoting of the reel assembly 1 about the pivot axis P andthe rotation of the reel 8 about the rotational axis R, it can bechallenging to connect a conduit to the reel 8 for subsequent connectionto the output linear element, e.g., a garden hose, an electrical cord,etc. The reel assembly 1 shown in FIGS. 1-6 can connect to varioussource conduits that connect to a source. For example, in someembodiments, the source conduits can comprise tubular members connectedto a water faucet for implementations in which the linear elementcomprises a water hose. In other embodiments, the source conduits cancomprise cord segments that connect to an electrical outlet forimplementations in which the linear element comprises an electricalcord.

As shown in FIGS. 1-3 and 5-6, the base 3 can comprise a first connector14 configured to connect to a source conduit. As shown in FIG. 1, forexample, the first connector 14 can extend laterally from the base 3generally parallel to the support surface (e.g., the ground). Inembodiments that utilize a linear element comprising a water hose, forexample, the first connector 14 can comprise a male or female connectionthat interconnects with a tubular conduit configured to convey water.The tubular conduit can connect to a water faucet or other source ofwater. The first connector 14 can communicate with an internal conduit(not shown) disposed within the base 3. For example, the internalconduit can comprise one or more internal tubes, channels or hoses (forconveyance of water or gases one or more internal cables (for conveyanceof electrical signals or power), or any other suitable type of conduit.The internal conduit can communicate with a second connector 15,illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3. The second connector 15 can providefluidic or electrical communication between the conduit within the base3 and another conduit that connects to the spool drum 8 and ultimatelythe working linear element, as explained below in connection with FIGS.7A-7C.

FIG. 7A is a front perspective view of a reel assembly similar to thereel assembly of FIGS. 1-6. FIG. 7B is a rear perspective view of thereel assembly of FIG. 7A. FIG. 7C illustrates a connector used toconnect to a linear element. The features of FIGS. 7A-7C may be the sameas or generally similar to the features described above in connectionwith FIGS. 1-6. As shown in FIGS. 7A-7B, the reel assembly 1 cancomprise a third connector 27, which may be the same as or complementaryto the first and second connectors 14, 15. A conduit 28 can extendbetween the second connector 15 and the third connector 27. For example,the conduit 28 can be routed around and/or through various portions ofthe frame 2. In the embodiment of FIGS. 7A-7B, for example, the conduit28 can extend from the second connector 15 on the base 15, through anaperture 29 of the frame 2, and to the third connector 27. In oneembodiment, the conduit can be a tube made of a substantially rigidmaterial (e.g., a plastic material such as polyvinyl chloride or PVC, ametal, etc.). Advantageously, the connectors 14, 15, 27 and conduits(e.g., conduit 28) that extend between them allow the reel assembly 1 torotate 360 degrees, for example without affecting the flow of water fromthe water source (e.g., water faucet) to the hose or linear material onthe spool drum 8. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 7B, the second connector 15can extend from the base 3 and through the proximal portion 5, and canhave a connector axis C along which fluid (for hoses) or electricalcurrent (for cords) flows. The connector axis C can beneficially bealigned with the pivot axis P, which can enable fluidic or electricalcommunication to the spooled linear element without tangling when theuser pivots the spool drum 8.

In some embodiments, the conduit 28 can be a hose that extends betweenthe second and third connectors 15, 27. In another embodiment, thelinear element (e.g., hose) can optionally have one end connected to thewater source (e.g., faucet) and the opposite end connected to the thirdconnector 27, though the angular range of motion may be less than 360degrees, such as less than 270 degrees, less than 180 degrees, etc. Asshown in FIG. 7C, for example, the third connector 27 can comprise amale connection 33 with external threads for connecting to acorresponding female connection of a water hose. An internal conduit(e.g., a fluid conduit, such as a hose, or an electrical conduit, suchas a cord or cable) can be disposed within or on the spool drum 8. Theinternal conduit of the spool drum 8 can fluidly or electricallycommunicate with a fourth connector 26 exposed on an outer surface ofthe spool drum 8, such as the spooling surface 11. Another conduit (notshown) can connect to a proximal end of the linear element, and thelinear element can be wound or spooled around the spooling surface 11.In another embodiment, the proximal end of the linear element (e.g.,hose) can connect to the fourth connector 26.

FIG. 8 illustrates a spool drum 8 configured for use in variousembodiments. The spool drum 8 of FIG. 8 can be the same as orsubstantially similar to the spool drum 8 described and illustrated inconnection with FIGS. 1-7C, except, the spool drum 8 can comprise acontour 30 on an outer surface of the end pieces 9, 10. The contour 30can define a plurality of recesses separated by outwardly-projectingwebs to define a mesh-shaped structure.

FIG. 9 is a schematic side view of a reel assembly 1 according tovarious embodiments. The reel assembly 1 can be the same as or similarto the reel assembly 1 of FIGS. 1-8, except the reel assembly 1 caninclude a housing 31 disposed about the reel. The housing 31 cancomprise any suitable shape or design. In the illustrated embodiment,for example, the housing 31 can define a frog-shaped profile.

FIG. 10A is a schematic front, right perspective view of a reel assemblyaccording to various embodiments. FIG. 10B is a schematic front view ofthe reel assembly of FIG. 10A. FIG. 10B is a schematic front, leftperspective view of the reel assembly of FIG. 10A. FIG. 11A is aschematic right elevational view of the reel assembly of FIG. 10A. FIG.11B is a schematic left elevational view of the reel assembly of FIG.10A. FIGS. 12A and 12B are exploded views of various components of thereel assembly of FIG. 10A. FIG. 13A is a schematic rear perspective viewof the reel assembly of FIG. 10A. FIG. 13B is a magnified schematic rearperspective view of the reel assembly of FIG. 13A. Unless otherwisenoted, the components illustrated in FIGS. 10A-13B can be the same as orsubstantially similar to like-numbered components shown and described inconnection with FIGS. 1-9. The features shown in FIGS. 10A-13B can bereadily combined with the features described in connection with FIGS.1-9.

For example, as shown in FIGS. 10A-10C, a linear element 32 can bespooled about the spooling surface 11 of the spool drum 8. As explainedabove, in various embodiments, the linear element 32 can comprise afluid hose (e.g., a water hose, an air hose, etc.) or an electricalcord. An outlet 39 can be provided at a distal end of the linear element32, and the linear element 32 can be disposed between the bearings 13 a,13 b with the outlet 39 positioned distal the bearings 13 a, 13 b. Theoutlet 39 can comprise a nozzle or other connector when the linearelement 32 comprises a fluid hose. The outlet 39 can comprise anelectrical connector when the linear element 32 comprises an electricalcord. In addition, FIGS. 10A-10C illustrate a battery 34 that providespower to the controller 25. The battery 34 can comprise any suitabletype of battery, such as a lithium ion battery. As explained below inconnection with FIG. 18, a power switch and/or a wind-in switch can beprovided at or near the controller 25 to turn the reel assembly 1 ON orOFF, and/or to automatically wind in the linear element 32.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 10B, the base can have a lower surfacethat defines a lateral dimension L of the base 3, such that the lowersurface is to be supported by the support surface (e.g., the ground)during use of the reel assembly 1. The spool drum 8 can have a width walong the rotational axis R defined by a distance between the outersurfaces of the end pieces 9, 10. In the illustrated embodiment, thewidth w of the spool drum 8 is less than the lateral dimension L of thebase. Dimensioning the base 3 to be wider than the spool drum 8 mayprovide improved stability for the reel assembly 1 when the user pullson the linear element 32. For example, when a user pulls the linearelement 32 along a direction tangent to the pivot axis P, the resultingmoment may tend to cause the reel assembly 1 to overturn. Providing asufficiently wide base 3 can assist in preventing such overturningmoments. In various embodiments, the lateral dimension L of the base 3can be in a range of 9 inches to 24 inches, in a range of 9 inches to 18inches, in a range of 10 inches to 15 inches, in a range of 9 inches to13 inches, in a range of 9 inches to 12.5 inches, o rin a range of 10inches to 12 inches, e.g., about 12 inches. In some embodiments, thewidth w of the spool drum 8 can be in a range of 3 inches to 8 inches orin a range of 4 inches to 8 inches.

Moreover, as shown in FIGS. 12A-12B, additional components can beprovided to assemble the reel assembly 1. For example, as shown in FIG.12A, a bushing 37 and a sleeve 36 can be provided to connect the conduit28 to the spool drum 8. As explained above, the conduit 28 can providefluidic communication (when the linear element is a fluid hose, such asa water or air hose) or electrical communication (when the linearelement is an electrical cord) between the second connector 15 and thethird connector 27. Internal conduit(s) of the spool drum 8 can providefluidic or electrical communication to the linear element, e.g., by wayof the fourth connector 26 shown in FIG. 7A. An axle shaft 38 canprovide a smooth surface about which the spool drum 8 can rotate.Moreover, as shown in FIG. 12A, a fastener 41 can connect the wheel 12to the horizontal segment 16. The wheel 12 can rotate about the fastener41. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 12B, the spooling support 13 canfurther comprise a spooling guide 40. The spooling guide 40 can comprisea rod along which the bearings 13 a, 13 b can slide, e.g., along theaxis S shown in FIG. 2. A bushing 42 can connect to the spoolingactuator 23 to couple the spooling actuator 23 to the frame 2.

Turning to FIGS. 13A and 13B, as explained above, the first connector 14can connect an input line (such as an input hose or cord) to one or moreconduits in the base 3 (not shown). The one or more conduits in the base3 can connect to the second connector 15. The second connector 15 may becoupled with the base 3 and/or the proximal portion 5. For example, thesecond connector 15 can extend from the base 3 through an aperture ofthe proximal portion 5. The second connector 15 can have a connectoraxis C that provides communication (whether fluidic or electrical)vertically from the base 3 and to the conduit 28 by way of a fitting 50.The connector axis C can be non-parallel relative to the rotational axisR and can be aligned with the pivot axis P. The fitting 50 can providehorizontal communication between the second connector 15 and the conduit28. Further, as shown in FIGS. 13A, 13B, the conduit 28 can be angled soas to define a first conduit segment 28 a and a second conduit segment28 b angled relative to the first conduit segment 28 a by way of anintervening bend. The angled conduit 28 can provide fluidic orelectrical communication to the third connector 27 as explained herein.For example, as shown in FIG. 13B, and as explained above with respectto FIG. 7B, the conduit 28 can be disposed around or through the frame 2so as to communicate with the third connector 27. For example, theconduit 28 can extend through the aperture 29, which may comprise a holeor a slot in the frame 2. By orienting the second connector 15 along thepivot axis P and by routing the conduit 28 around or through the frame2, the arrangement shown in FIGS. 13A-13B can beneficially enable theuser to pivot the frame 2 and spool drum 8 about the pivot axis Pwithout tangling the linear element during use. The third connector 27can be configured to provide fluid or electrical communication with thelinear element 32 along a second connector axis parallel to therotational axis R, e.g., to provide fluid or current through the spooldrum 8. The conduit 28 can therefore have a first end portion connectedto the second connector 15 and a second end portion connected to thethird connector 27, with at least a portion of the conduit 28 extendingnon-parallel relative to the connector axis C. The conduit 28 can bebent so as to pass through or around the mounting portion 4 of the frame2 to provide fluid or electrical communication between the connectors15, 27.

The proximal portion 5 of the frame 2 can be coupled with the base 3 byway of an intervening disc bearing 36 (also illustrated in FIG. 12A). Asexplained below in connection with FIGS. 14A-14C, the disc bearing 36can provide a relatively hard, low friction surface that supports thepivotable proximal portion 5 of the frame 2. Although the proximalportion 5 is illustrated as having a polygonal (e.g., rectangular)profile, in other arrangements, the proximal portion 5 can be rounded.As the frame 2 pivots about the pivot axis P, a bottom surface of theproximal portion 5 can bear or press downwardly against an upper surfaceof the disc bearing 36. The relatively low friction surface provided bythe disc bearing 36 can enable smooth pivoting motions relative to thestationary base 3. The disc bearing 36 can comprise a sufficiently hardmaterial that can bear the weight of the reel assembly 1 while alsoenabling smooth pivoting of the spool drum 8 about the pivot axis P. Invarious embodiments, the disc bearing 36 can comprise a polymer, such asDelrin® (acetal or polyoxymethylene), manufactured by DuPont™. In otherembodiments, however, the disc bearing 36 can comprise one or aplurality of bearings or rollers that can provide smooth pivotingmotions relative to the base 3.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 13B, an upper surface of the base 3 cancomprise one or a plurality of projections 35 extending therefrom. Theprojections 35 can have a height h that is less than a thickness t ofthe disc bearing 36 (shown in FIG. 14C). During operation, the frame 2and/or spool drum 8 may tilt (e.g., due to user-applied forces to thelinear element 32) so that the outer portions of the proximal portion 5extending beyond the disc hearing 36 may contact or rub against the base3, and/or may induce excessive pressure against regions of the discbearing 36. For example, if the frame 2 tilts excessively to one side,then the corresponding underlying region of the disc bearing 36 mayexperience excessive wear, and/or the frame 2 may experience increasedfriction during pivoting.

The projections 35 extending from the base 3 can beneficially providesupport to the proximal portion 5 of the frame 2 if the frame 2 and/orspool drum 8 tilt during operation. The support provided by theprojections 35 can reduce the load on the disc bearing 36 and canaccordingly improve the pivoting motion of the frame 2. In someembodiments, the height h of the projections 35 can be only slightlysmaller than the thickness t of the disc bearing 36. For example, insome embodiments, the height h of the projections 35 can be shorter thana thickness t of the disc bearing 36 by an amount in a range of 1/16inches to 1/64 inches, or in a range of 1/20 inches to 1/36 inches,e.g., about 1/32 inches. In some embodiments, the height h of theprojections 35 may be no more than 99% of the thickness t of the discbearing 36, no more than 95% of the thickness t of the disc bearing 36,no more than 90% of the thickness t of the disc bearing 36, no more than75% of the thickness t of the disc bearing 36, or no more than 50% ofthe thickness t of the disc hearing 36. For example, the height h of theprojections 35 may be in a range of 50% to 99% of the thickness t of thedisc hearing 36, in a range of 75% to 99% of the thickness t of the discbearing 36, or in a range of 75% to 95% of the thickness t of the discbearing 36. In addition, a plurality of projections 35 are shown in anannular pattern around the pivot axis P; however, in other embodiments,only a single projection 35 (e.g., a ridge) can extend annularly aroundthe pivot axis P. In various embodiments, the projections 35 can berounded so as to improve the support for the disc bearing 36.

FIG. 14A is a top perspective view of the disc bearing 36 shown in FIG.13B. FIG. 14B is a top plan view of the disc bearing of FIG. 14A. FIG.14C is a schematic side sectional view of the disc bearing of FIGS.14A-14B. The disc bearing 36 can comprise an opening 45 through whichcomponents may extend to provide mechanical connection, fluidcommunication, and/or electrical communication between the base 3 andthe frame 2. For example, the second connector 15 can extend through theopening 45 to connect to the conduit 28 by way of the fitting 50. Otherrotating shafts or components may also extend through the opening 45.

As shown in FIGS. 14A-14C, the disc bearing 36 can comprise a pluralityof annular ridges 43 projecting upward and spaced apart by interveningannular grooves 44. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the discbearing 36 can comprise a first outer ridge 43 a, a second ridge 43 b,and a third inner ridge 43 c. A first outer groove 44 a can be disposedbetween the first outer ridge 43 a and the second ridge 43 b. A secondouter groove 44 b can be disposed between the second ridge 43 b and thethird inner ridge 43 c. Beneficially, the annular ridges 43 can providea low surface area (and hence low friction) bearing surface on which theproximal portion 5 of the frame 2 can pivot. For example, the annularridges 43 can provide a bearing surface along which the mounting portion4 of the frame 2 slides when the mounting portion 4 pivots about thepivot axis P.

Moreover, the use of multiple grooves 44 can advantageously trap debriswithin the groove 44 such that the debris does not increase the frictionwhen the proximal portion 5 pivots relative to the disc bearing 36. Forexample, debris (dirt, sand, dust, etc.) may enter the reel assembly 1and may pass over or on top of the first outer ridge 43 a. Suchinwardly-moving debris can beneficially be trapped in the first outergroove 44 a. For example, if debris passes on top of the ridge 43 a,movement of the frame 2 and/or gravity may cause the debris to fall offthe ridge 43 a and into the groove 44 a. Similarly, debris may pass overor on top of the third inner ridge 43 c, Such outwardly-moving debriscan beneficially be trapped in the second inner groove 44 b. Thus, thegrooves 44 can trap debris so as to provide a receptacle for debris thatpasses over the grooves, thereby reducing friction. Although a pluralityof ridges 43 are shown in FIGS. 14A-14C, it should be appreciated thatin other embodiments, only a single ridge may be provided. As explainedabove, the thickness t of the disc bearing 36, as measured from anuppermost surface of the disc bearing 36 (e.g., a top surface of theridges 43) to a lowermost surface of the disc bearing 36, can be in arange of ⅛ inches to ½ inches, e.g., about ¼ inches.

FIG. 15 is a schematic top plan view of a reel assembly 1, according toanother embodiment, Unless otherwise noted, components shown in FIG. 15may be the same as or similar to like-numbered components shown in FIGS.1-14C. For example, as with the above embodiments, the proximal portion5 of the frame 2 can be pivotally connected to the base 3, such that theframe 2 and the reel drum 8 can pivot about the pivot axis P. The pivotaxis P can be relatively stationary during use. Further, the reel drum 8can rotate about the rotational axis R, which can be transverse to thepivot axis P.

Unlike the embodiments shown above, however, the pivoting motion of theframe 2 and reel drum 8 about the pivot axis P can be provided by apivoting engagement between the base 3 and the proximal portion 5 of theframe 2. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, the proximal portion 5 of theframe 2 may be similar in size and shape to the base 3, such that theproximal portion 5 fits over the base 3. Thus, as shown by the hiddenlines of FIG. 15, the proximal portion 5 of the frame 2 is wider thanthe underlying base 3 so as to obscure the base 3 in the top view ofFIG. 15, In other embodiments, however, the proximal portion 5 can benarrower than the base 3. As shown in FIG. 15, the base 3 can comprise achannel 47 defining an outer channel wall 47 a and an inner channel wall47 b. In the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of rollers 46 can beprovided side by side in the channel 47 in an annular arrangement aboutthe pivot axis P. In various embodiments, the rollers 46 can compriseball bearings or other suitable rolling components. The proximal portion5 of the frame 2 can be disposed over the rollers 46 such that, when thelinear element is pulled by the user (e.g., in a direction tangent tothe base 3), the frame 2 and spool drum 8 can freely pivot about thepivot axis P. Although a plurality of rollers 46 are shown in FIG. 15,in other embodiments, the spool drum 8 can connect to a wheel (similarto the wheel 12 shown herein) that can roll along the channel 47 in thebase 3.

FIGS. 16A and 16B are schematic top plan views of a base 3 thatincorporates pivoting base extensions 48 for improved stability. Asexplained herein, it can be desirable to dimension the base 3 such thatthe base 3 can accommodate overturning moments due to external forces(e.g., a user pulling the linear element) and/or the weight of the reelassembly 1. However, the lateral dimension L may be limited by packagingconstraints, user preferences, and other factors. For example, it can beimportant to dimension the base 3 with the lateral dimension Lsufficiently large so as to account for overturning moments, but smallenough to fit within packaging constraints that may be set by thecustomer or another entity. Furthermore, the user may prefer that thelateral dimension L be small enough to store in small closets, etc.

Accordingly, in the embodiment of FIGS. 16A-16B, the base 3 can have afirst stored profile as shown in FIG. 16A, and a second deployed profileas shown in FIG. 16B. In the stored profile of FIG. 16A, the extensions48 may be disposed under the body of the base 3. To deploy the base 3 tothe deployed profile of FIG. 16B, the user can rotate the extensions 48outwardly about respective extension pivot axes r such that a proximalportion of each extension 48 is connected with an outer periphery of thebase 3 at the respective extension pivot axis r, and a distal portion ofeach extension 48 extends outwardly from the periphery of the base 3. Asshown in the deployed profile of FIG. 16B, the extensions 48 can providean increased footprint as compared with the stored profile of FIG. 16A.Beneficially, the stored profile of FIG. 16A can enable the base 3 tofit within small packages and/or to be stored in small spaces. Forexample, in various embodiments, the stored profile can have a largestlateral dimension L in a range of 8 inches to 15 inches, or in a rangeof 10 inches to 15 inches e.g., about 12 inches. The deployed profile ofFIG. 16B can improve the stability of the base 3 and its ability towithstand overturning moments, by increasing the footprint of the base 3during use. The largest lateral dimension of the base 3 with extensions48 extended outwardly in FIG. 16B can be in a range of 12 inches to 36inches, in a range of 15 inches to 36 inches, or in a range of 15 inchesto 24 inches. In the deployed profile, the largest lateral dimension canbe measured as the maximum dimension measured between two outermostpoints of the base 3 and extensions 48.

FIGS. 17A and 17B are schematic top plan views of a base 3 thatincorporates sliding base extensions 48 for improved stability. The base3 shown in FIGS. 17A-17B is generally similar to the base 3 andextensions 48 shown in FIGS. 16A-16B, except in FIGS. 17A-17B, theextensions 48 are slideable relative to the body of the base 3, asopposed to rotatable. For example, in the stored profile of FIG. 17A,the extensions 48 are disposed underneath the body of the base 3. Thestored profile of FIG. 17A can enable the assembly 1 to be packaged orstored within a compact footprint. To improve the stability of theassembly 1 during use, the user can slide the extensions 48 outwardlyalong a slider s. Thus, as with the embodiment of FIGS. 16A-16B, theextensions of 48 of FIGS. 17A-17B can improve the stability of the reelassembly while enabling packaging or storage within a smaller footprint.As with FIGS. 16A-16B, in the embodiment of FIGS. 17A-17B, the storedprofile can have a largest lateral dimension L in a range of 8 inches to15 inches, or in a range of 10 inches to 15 inches e.g., about 12inches. The deployed profile of FIG. 16B can improve the stability ofthe base 3 and its ability to withstand overturning moments, byincreasing the footprint of the base 3 during use. The largest lateraldimension of the base 3 with extensions 48 extended outwardly in FIG.16B can be in a range of 12 inches to 36 inches, in a range of 15 inchesto 36 inches, or in a range of 15 inches to 24 inches.

FIG. 18 is a schematic system diagram of a reel assembly, according tovarious embodiments. Unless otherwise noted, the components of FIG. 18may be the same as or generally similar to like-numbered componentsshown and described in connection with FIGS. 1-17B. For example, thereel assembly 1 can comprise a controller 25 that includes processingelectronics configured to control the operation of the assembly 1. Thecontroller 25 can comprise active integrated device dies such asprocessors that can be programmed to execute instructions stored onnon-transitory computer readable storage media. The controller 25 canalso include passive circuit elements, such as resistors, capacitors,and inductors that cooperate to perform various functions.

As explained above, the battery 34 (such as a lithium ion battery) mayprovide electrical power to the controller 25 and other components ofthe reel assembly such as the motor 19. The controller 25 can compriseprocessing electronics that sends instructions to the motor to cause thespool drum 8 to rotate and/or the spooling actuator 23 to translate tospool and/or unspool the linear element. For example, the controller 25can send electrical signals to the motor 19 to drive the motor, which inturns imparts rotation to the gears 20-22, for example, by way of amotor shaft.

In some embodiments, the user can operate a handheld remote control 55to control the operation of the reel assembly 1. For example, asexplained in the references appended hereto, the handheld remote control55 can communicate with the antenna 49 of the reel assembly 1 over awireless communications network. In addition, a control mechanism 58 maybe switchably connected to the spool drum 8 (e.g., to the connectorsand/or conduits coupled with the spool drum 8) and the linear element32. In embodiments in which the reel assembly 1 includes a fluid hose asthe linear element 32, the control mechanism 58 can comprise a controlvalve that selectably controls the flow of water to the linear element32. The user can interact with the remote control 55 to turn on or turnoff the supply of fluid (e.g., water) to the fluid hose. In embodimentsin which the reel assembly 1 includes an electrical cord or cable as thelinear element 32, the control mechanism 58 can comprise an electricalswitch that selectably controls the supply of current to the linearelement 32. The user can interact with the remote control 55 to turn onor turn off the current supplied to the linear element 32. In addition,in various embodiments, the user can interact with the control mechanism58 to automatically turn off the supply of fluid and/or current and toinitiate re-spooling of the linear element 32 onto the spool drum 8.

As shown in FIG. 18, a wind-in switch 56 and a power switch 57 can beprovided on the reel assembly 1. In some arrangements, the controller 25may continuously monitor the wireless network for any incoming commandstransmitted from the remote control 55 to the controller 25. Suchcontinuous monitoring may draw power from the battery 34, reducing theoverall lifetime of the battery 34. Beneficially, in the embodimentsdisclosed herein, the controller 25 and the reel assembly 1 can have anOFF mode in which the user presses the power switch 57 to OFF and an ONmode in which the user presses the power switch 57 to ON. When the powerswitch 57 is switched to OFF, the reel assembly 1 can shut down suchthat the battery 34 provides no power to the other components (e.g., thecontroller 25) of the reel assembly 1. In the OFF mode, therefore, insome embodiments, the controller 25 may not monitor any activity of thereel assembly 1.

When the power switch 57 is switched to ON, the user can pull the linearelement 32 from the spool drum 8 to unspool the linear element 32. Forexample, in some embodiments, the user can manually activate the controlmechanism 58 (e.g., a water faucet in embodiments in which the linearelement 32 is a water hose) to supply fluid and/or current to the linearelement 32. In other embodiments, the user can interact with the remotecontrol 55 to activate the control mechanism 58 (e.g., a smart watervalve for embodiments that utilize a water hose) to supply fluid orcurrent to the linear element 32. When the user is finished using thelinear element 32 and reel assembly 1, the user can depress the manualwind-in switch 56, which can automatically shut off the flow of fluid orelectricity to the linear element 32 and automatically wind in thelinear element 32 to re-spool the linear element 32 about the spool drum8. For example, the controller 25 can send a shut-off signal to thecontrol mechanism 58, and/or can send a wind signal to the motor 19 tocause the motor 19 to spool the linear element 32 onto the drum 8. Inother embodiments, the user can interact with the remote control 55 tocommunicate with the controller 25 (e.g., over a wireless network) toshut off the flow of fluid or electricity to the linear element 32and/or to wind in the linear element 32. In still other arrangements,when the user depresses the power switch 57 to the OFF position, thecontroller 25 can automatically cause the flow of fluid or electricityto shut off and the linear element to spool onto the drum 8.

In some embodiments, the controller 25 can be programmed to place thereel assembly 1 in a sleep mode if a predetermined amount of time passeswith little or no activity. For example, the controller can compriseprocessing electronics (including active and/or passive components) thatcan determine whether the motor 19 is operating to spool the linearelement 32, and/or whether the linear element 32 is being unspooled fromthe drum 8. For example, in some embodiments, the user can manuallyunspool the linear element 32 from the drum 8 by pulling the linearelement. Pulling the linear element 32 can induce a back electromotiveforce (EMF) in the motor 19 that can be monitored by the controller 25.If the motor 19 has been inactive for a predetermined time period, e.g.,the linear element 32 is not being spooled onto or unspooled from thespool drum 8, then the controller 25 can place the reel assembly in thesleep mode. In still other arrangements, the reel assembly can includeone or a plurality of sensors that can detect system activity. Forexample, one or more motion sensors (e.g., accelerometers, gyroscopes,position sensors, etc.), one or more optical sensors, or other types ofsensors can be provided on the controller 25, on the spool drum 8, onvarious portions of the linear element 32, or on any other suitableportion of the reel assembly 1. The sensors can send signals to thecontroller 25, and based on the signals from the sensors, the controller25 can determine whether to place the assembly 1 in sleep mode.

Beneficially, when the system is in sleep mode, the battery 34 need notsupply any electrical power to the controller 25 or any other componentsof the reel assembly 1. For example, in sleep mode, the controller 25may not continuously monitor for wireless signals being transmitted bythe remote control 55 or other signals from other components (such asthe control mechanism 58). Thus, when in sleep mode, the life of thebattery 34 may beneficially be extended. The reel assembly 1 can movefrom the sleep mode to the activated ON mode when the user pulls thelinear element 32 (or if the user engages the ON switch in someembodiments). When the user pulls the linear element 32, the linearelement 32 will tend to unspool from the spool drum 8, causing the spooldrum 8 to rotate. Rotation of the spool drum 8 can induce the back EMFin the motor 19. The back EMF can be detected by processing circuitry inthe controller 25, and the controller 25 can activate the reel assembly1 for operation by the user. After activation from sleep mode, the usercan operate the remote control 55 and/or the switches on the reelassembly 1 to use the reel assembly 1.

Thus, the embodiment of FIG. 18 enables automatic and/or manual controlof the reel assembly. The use of the sleep mode can beneficially extendthe battery life of the battery 34. It should be appreciated that otherbuttons and functionalities can be included in the reel assembly 1 ofFIG. 18.

FIGS. 19A-24 illustrate the incorporation of a wear ring assembly 60into the reel assembly 1. The reel assembly 1 can be any suitable reelassembly, including those explained herein. FIG. 19A is a schematicperspective exploded view of a wear ring assembly 60, according tovarious embodiments. FIG. 19B is a schematic perspective exploded viewof a wear ring assembly 60, according to another embodiment. FIG. 19C isa schematic perspective view of the wear ring assembly of FIG. 19A in anassembled configuration. The wear ring assembly 60 can comprise a wearring 61 having first portion 61 a configured to removably connect to asecond portion 61 b. The wear ring 61 can be disposed within a wear ringsupport 62. As shown in FIGS. 19A-19B, the wear ring support 62 cancomprise a first support 62 a configured to removably connect to asecond support 62 b. For example, as shown in FIGS. 19A-19B, the wearring 61 can comprise a ridge 63 configured to be received within acorresponding groove 64 of the wear ring support 62. The wear ring 61 ofFIG. 19B may be generally similar to the wear ring 61 of FIG. 19A,except the wear ring 61 of FIG. 19B may be thinner, e.g., may beentirely disposed within the wear ring support 62.

Beneficially, the wear ring assembly 60 of FIGS. 19A-19C can enableimproved spooling and/or unspooling of the linear element 32 about thespool drum 8. For example, the wear ring 61 can comprise a smooth,relatively hard surface to enable the linear element 32 to slide throughan opening 65 in the wear ring assembly 60 with reduced friction. Thereduced friction provided by the wear ring 61 can enable the user toeasily pull the linear element 32 from the spool drum 8. In variousembodiments, the wear ring 61 can comprise a polymer, such as Delrin®(acetal or polyoxymethylene, manufactured by DuPont™ which can enablerelatively low friction engagement between the linear element 32 and theinner surface of the wear ring 61. Moreover, as explained herein, therelatively constrained opening 65 can reduce kinking of the linearelement 32 by smoothing out any bends or kinks in the linear element 32prior to spooling onto the spool drum 8.

In addition, the use of a plurality (e.g., two) portions 61 a, 61 b ofthe wear ring 61 and the use of a plurality (e.g., two) supports 62 a,62 b can beneficially enable the user to replace the wear ring 61 if thewear ring 61 were to degrade or otherwise experience reduced performanceduring use. For example, in some embodiments, the first and secondportions 61 a, 61 b of the wear ring 61 can be removably engagedsnapped, threaded, or otherwise engaged) to one another. In somearrangements, the first and second supports 62 a, 62 b can be removableengaged (e.g., snapped, threaded, or otherwise engaged) to one another.Moreover, removable engagement of the portions 61 a, 61 b of the wearring 61 and of the supports 62 a, 62 b can enable the user to disposedthe narrow opening 65 about the linear element 32 proximal the outlet39, which may be wider than the linear element 32 and the opening 65.

FIG. 20A is a schematic perspective view of a wear ring assemblyincorporated into a housing 66, in accordance with some embodiments.FIG. 20B is a schematic perspective view of a wear ring assembly 60incorporated into a housing 66, in accordance with various embodiments.FIG. 20C is a schematic perspective view of a wear ring assembly 60integrated with a housing 66 that is coupled to a spooling support 13.FIG. 20D is a schematic perspective view of a wear ring assembly 60incorporated into a housing 66, in accordance with various embodiments.As explained herein, the housing 66 can connect with the spoolingsupport 13 so as to improved spooling and/or unspooling of the linearelement 32.

FIG. 21 is a schematic front view of a reel assembly 1 that incorporatesa wear ring assembly 60, according to various embodiments. FIG. 22 is aschematic right side view of the reel assembly 1 of FIG. 21, with thelinear element 32 in a spooled or stored configuration. FIG. 23 is aschematic right side view of the reel assembly 1 of FIG. 21, with thelinear element 32 in a partially unspooled configuration. FIG. 24 is aschematic perspective view of the reel assembly 1 of FIG. 22. As shownin FIGS. 21-24, the housing 66 to which the wear ring assembly 60 iscoupled can be connected with the spooling support 13, such that thehousing 66 and wear ring assembly 60 translate along the spoolingsupport axis S (see FIG. 2) so as to provide a uniform spool onto thespool drum 8. As shown in FIGS. 22-24, for example, the housing 66 cancouple with the spooling actuator 23 (such as a reversing screw) by wayof connecting segment 67.

As explained above, as the linear element 32 is spooled onto the spooldrum 8, the housing 66 and wear ring assembly 60 may translate along thespooling axis S. e.g., due to rotation of the spooling actuator 23(e.g., a reversing screw). The translation of the wear ring assembly 60can enable the linear element 32 to uniformly spool onto the spool drum8. Moreover, the diameter or lateral major dimension of the opening 65of the wear ring 61 may be larger than the outer dimension of the linearelement 32, such that the opening 65 constrains the linear element 32and reduces kinking or bending of the linear element 32. For example,the inner major dimension of the opening 65 can be in a range of 1.1times to 2 times the outer major dimension of the linear element 32, ina range of 1.2 times to 1.8 times the outer major dimension of thelinear element 32, or in a range of 1.2 times to 1.4 times the outermajor dimension of the linear element 32.

FIGS. 25A-25D illustrate another embodiment of a reel assembly 1. Thereel assembly 1 can be any suitable reel assembly, including any of thereel assemblies 1 described herein. FIG. 25A is a schematic perspectiveview of the reel assembly 1, in which vertical wheel segments 17 a, 17 bcan be removably attached to the frame 2. FIG. 25B is a schematicperspective view of the reel assembly 1, with the vertical wheelsegments 17 a, 17 b installed. FIG. 25C is a top plan view of the reelassembly 1 shown in FIGS. 25A-25B. Unless otherwise noted, referencenumerals used in FIGS. 25A-25D represent components that are the same asor similar to like numbered components in FIGS. 1-24. For example, aswith the embodiments described above, the reel assembly 1 can comprise aspool drum 8 that is pivotally coupled with a base 3, such that thespool drum 8 can pivot about a fixed pivot axis P.

Unlike the embodiments illustrated above, however, the frame 2 canconnect to a plurality of wheels 12 a, 12 b that are offset from therotational axis R of the spool drum 8. As shown in FIGS. 25A-25B, eachwheel 12 a, 12 b can connect with a distal portion of the frame 2 by wayof respective vertical wheel segments 17 a, 17 b, As shown in FIG. 25A,the wheel segments 17 a, 17 b can be removably coupled with the frame 2,such that the user can remove and/or replace the wheels 12 a, 12 b andwheel segments 17 a, 17 b. The use of multiple wheels 12 a, 12 b canimprove the pivoting motion of the spool drum 8 in some embodiments. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 25C, the wheels 12 a, 12 b can be disposed atcorner portions of the distal end of the frame 2. The wheels 12 a, 12 bcan be angled relative to the rotational axis R of the spool drum 8 suchthat the wheels 12 a, 12 b can follow a pathway PW revolving around thepivot axis P. For example, the wheels 12 a, 12 b can be disposed at awheel angle W relative to the rotational axis R to enable improvedpivoting of the spool drum 8. The wheel angle W can be in a range of 5°to 45°, in a range of 10° to 45°, or in a range of 10° to 35°.

FIG. 25D is a schematic perspective view of an example vertical wheelsegment 17 a and wheel 12 a. As explained above, the wheel segment 17 aand wheel 12 a can removably connect to the frame 2 by way of atool-less quick connection. For example, as shown in FIG. 25D, thevertical wheel segment 17 a can comprise a hollow tubular member inwhich a spring clip 71 can be disposed. The spring clip 71 can be biasedoutwardly such that the inner wall of the vertical wheel segment 17 acompresses the spring clip 71 inwardly. The wheel segment 17 a can beinserted into a corresponding opening in the frame 2. One or moreprojections 73 of the spring clip 71 can extend radially outwardlythrough apertures in the vertical wheel segment 17 a. The projections 73can be biased outwardly so as to engage a corresponding recess (notshown) in the frame 2 to secure the wheel segment 17 a to the frame 2.The user can remove the wheel segment 17 a by depressing the projections73 inwardly into the hollow interior of the segment 17 a, and can removethe wheel segment 17 a from the frame if desired. An end cap 72 can beprovided at an upper end of the vertical segment 17 a.

FIG. 26A-26G illustrate various additional embodiments of a reelassembly 1. Unless otherwise noted, the components in FIGS. 26A-26G maybe generally similar to or the same as like numbered components of FIGS.1-25D. FIG. 26A is a schematic perspective view of the reel assembly 1.As explained above, a controller 25 can control the operation of thereel assembly 1. In the embodiment of FIG. 26A, the controller 26 caninclude electronic circuitry mounted within a weatherproof housing. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the controller 26 (within the weatherproofhousing) can be mounted to the mounting portion 4 of the frame 2.Further, as shown in FIG. 26B a switch 120 for powering the reelassembly 1 on and/or off can be provided on the weatherproof housing.The switch 120 can be turned on when the user desires to start using thereel assembly 1. Th user can turn the switch off to completely shut downthe power, e.g., so as to avoid draining the battery.

FIGS. 26C-E illustrate a gear assembly 126, which can cause the spooldrum 8 to rotate about the rotational axis R to cause the linear elementto spool and/or unspool from the spooling surface 11. FIG. 26C is afront perspective view of the gear assembly 126. FIG. 26D is a rearperspective view of the gear assembly 126. FIG. 26E is a frontperspective view of the gear assembly 126 with the planetary gears 121a-121 c omitted for ease of illustration. As shown in FIG. 26E, themotor 19 can be integrally formed with a first gear 124, such thatrotation of the motor 19 induces rotation of the first gear 124. Themotor 19 and the first gear 124 can be disposed about, and can rotaterelative to a shaft 123. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the shaft123 may be stationary. As shown in FIGS. 26C and 26D, the first gear 124can engage with corresponding teeth of a plurality of planetary gears121 a-121 c, which can be disposed about the central first gear 124. Arear bearing 122 can be provided on the rear surface of the motor 19 toengage with the shaft 123. Rotation of the first gear 124 can impartcorresponding rotation to the planetary gears 121 a-121 c, which cancause the linear element to spool and or unspool from the reel drum.

FIG. 26F is a schematic left perspective view of a reel assembly 1,having a plurality of wheels 12 a, 12 b. FIG. 26G is a schematic rightperspective view of the reel assembly 1 of FIG. 26F. Unlike theembodiment of, e.g., FIG. 1, in FIGS. 26F-26G, more than one wheel(e.g., two wheels 12 a, 12 b) can be provided. In some embodiments,providing a plurality of wheels 12 a, 12 b can improve the pivotingmotion of the reel assembly 1 as compared with embodiments that utilizea single wheel.

Having thus described various embodiments, those of skill in the artwill readily appreciate from the disclosure herein that yet otherembodiments may be made and used within the scope of the embodimentsattached hereto. For example, the reel assembly may be used with varioustypes of linear elements, such as water hoses, air hoses, pressurewasher hoses, vacuum hoses, electrical cords, and the like. Numerousadvantages of the embodiments covered by this disclosure have been setforth in the foregoing description. It will be understood however thatthis disclosure is, in many respects, only illustrative. Changes may bemade in details without exceeding the scope of the disclosure.

Although this disclosure has been described in the context of certainembodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in theart that the disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosedembodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses and obviousmodifications and equivalents thereof. In addition, while severalvariations of the embodiments of the disclosure have been shown anddescribed in detail, other modifications, which are within the scope ofthis disclosure, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art.It is also contemplated that various combinations or sub-combinations ofthe specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made andstill fall within the scope of the disclosure. For example, featuresdescribed above in connection with one embodiment can be used with adifferent embodiment described herein and the combination still fallwithin the scope of the disclosure. It should be understood that variousfeatures and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with,or substituted for, one another in order to form varying modes of theembodiments of the disclosure. Thus, it is intended that the scope ofthe disclosure herein should not be limited by the particularembodiments described above. Accordingly, unless otherwise stated, orunless clearly incompatible, each embodiment of this invention maycomprise, additional to its essential features described herein, one ormore features as described herein from each other embodiment of theinvention disclosed herein.

Features, materials, characteristics, or groups described in conjunctionwith a particular aspect, embodiment, or example are to be understood tobe applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described inthis section or elsewhere in this specification unless incompatibletherewith. All of the features disclosed in this specification(including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or allof the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined inany combination, except combinations where at least some of suchfeatures and/or steps are mutually exclusive. The protection is notrestricted to the details of any foregoing embodiments. The protectionextends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the featuresdisclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims,abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination,of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Furthermore, certain features that are described in this disclosure inthe context of separate implementations can also be implemented incombination in a single implementation. Conversely, various featuresthat are described in the context of a single implementation can also beimplemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitablesubcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above asacting in certain combinations, one or more features from a claimedcombination can, in some cases, be excised from the combination, and thecombination may be claimed as a subcombination or variation of asubcombination.

Moreover, while operations may be depicted in the drawings or describedin the specification in a particular order, such operations need not beperformed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or thatall operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. Otheroperations that are not depicted or described can be incorporated in theexample methods and processes. For example, one or more additionaloperations can be performed before, after, simultaneously, or betweenany of the described operations. Further, the operations may berearranged or reordered in other implementations. Those skilled in theart will appreciate that in some embodiments, the actual steps taken inthe processes illustrated and/or disclosed may differ from those shownin the figures. Depending on the embodiment, certain of the stepsdescribed above may be removed, others may be added. Furthermore, thefeatures and attributes of the specific embodiments disclosed above maybe combined in different ways to form additional embodiments, all ofwhich fall within the scope of the present disclosure. Also, theseparation of various system components in the implementations describedabove should not be understood as requiring such separation in allimplementations, and it should be understood that the describedcomponents and systems can generally be integrated together in a singleproduct or packaged into multiple products.

For purposes of this disclosure, certain aspects, advantages, and novelfeatures are described herein. Not necessarily all such advantages maybe achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment. Thus, forexample, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure maybe embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves one advantage or agroup of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving otheradvantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

Conditional language, such as “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unlessspecifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within thecontext as used, is generally intended to convey that certainembodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certainfeatures, elements, and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is notgenerally intended to imply that features, elements, and/or steps are inany way required for one or more embodiments or that one or moreembodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without userinput or prompting, whether these features, elements, and/or steps areincluded or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.

Conjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,”unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with thecontext as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may beeither X, Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is not generallyintended to imply that certain embodiments require the presence of atleast one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z.

Language of degree used herein, such as the terms “approximately,”“about,” “generally,” and “substantially” as used herein represent avalue, amount, or characteristic close to the stated value, amount, orcharacteristic that still performs a desired function or achieves adesired result. For example, the terms “approximately”, “about”,“generally,” and “substantially” may refer to an amount that is withinless than 10% of, within less than 5% of, within less than 1% of, withinless than 0.1% of, and within less than 0.01% of the stated amount. Asanother example, in certain embodiments, the terms “generally parallel”and “substantially parallel” refer to a value, amount, or characteristicthat departs from exactly parallel by less than or equal to 15 degrees,10 degrees, 5 degrees, 3 degrees, 1 degree, 0.1 degree, or otherwise.

The scope of the present disclosure is not intended to be limited by thespecific disclosures of preferred embodiments in this section orelsewhere in this specification, and may be defined by claims aspresented in this section or elsewhere in this specification or aspresented in the future. The language of the claims is to be interpretedbroadly based on the language employed in the claims and not limited tothe examples described in the present specification or during theprosecution of the application, which examples are to be construed asnon-exclusive.

1. A reel assembly comprising: a frame comprising a base and an elongatemounting portion configured to pivot relative to the base about a pivotaxis, the elongate mounting portion comprising a proximal portioncoupled with the base, a distal portion, and an intermediate portionbetween the proximal and distal portions; a spool drum connected withthe intermediate portion of the elongate mounting portion, the spooldrum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool alinear element, the rotational axis generally transverse to the pivotaxis; and a wheel connected to the distal portion of the elongatemounting portion and configured to roll about the pivot axis, whereinthe distal portion positions the wheel along a transverse axis that isgenerally transverse to the rotational axis and the pivot axis.
 2. Thereel assembly of claim 1, wherein the spool drum comprises a pair of endpieces spaced apart along the rotational axis, the spool drum defining aspooling surface between the end pieces, wherein the pair of end piecesdefines a corresponding pair of planes disposed parallel to thetransverse axis, the wheel disposed between the corresponding pair ofplanes.
 3. The reel assembly of claim 1, further comprising a motoroperably connected with the spool drum to cause the spool drum to rotateabout the rotational axis.
 4. The reel assembly of claim 3, furthercomprising a motor controller configured to control operation of themotor.
 5. The reel assembly of claim 3, further comprising a spoolingsupport coupled with the frame and offset from the spool drum along thetransverse axis, the spooling support configured to translate along aspooling support axis generally parallel to and offset from therotational axis
 6. The reel assembly of claim 5, wherein the motor isoperably connected with the spooling support to cause the spoolingsupport to translate about the spooling support axis.
 7. The reelassembly of claim 6, wherein the spooling support is translatable by wayof a spooling actuator that converts rotation imparted by the motor totranslation.
 8. The reel assembly of claim 7 further comprising one or aplurality of gears mechanically coupled between the motor and thespooling support.
 9. The reel assembly of claim 1, wherein the wheel isconfigured to rotate about the transverse axis so as to roll along apathway disposed about the pivot axis.
 10. The reel assembly of claim 1,further comprising a first connector on the base, a second connector onthe base, and one or more conduits connecting the first and secondconnectors.
 11. The reel assembly of claim 10, further comprising athird connector on the frame near the spool drum, a fourth connector ona spooling surface of the spool drum, and one or more conduitsconnecting the third and fourth connectors.
 12. The reel assembly ofclaim 11, further comprising a conduit extending between the secondconnector and the third connector, the conduit extending through oraround the frame.
 13. (canceled)
 14. (canceled)
 15. (canceled) 16.(canceled)
 17. (canceled)
 18. (canceled)
 19. (canceled)
 20. A reelassembly comprising: a frame having a base and a mounting portionconfigured to pivot relative to the base about a pivot axis; a spooldrum connected with the mounting portion of the frame, the spool drumconfigured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool alinear element, the rotational axis non-parallel with the pivot axis; amotor operably connected with the spool drum to cause the spool drum torotate about the rotational axis; and a controller in electricalcommunication with the motor, the controller configured to transmitcontrol signals to the motor to control the operation of the motor. 21.(canceled)
 22. A reel assembly comprising: a frame having a base and amounting portion configured to pivot relative to the base about a pivotaxis; a spool drum connected with the mounting portion of the frame, thespool drum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool andunspool a linear element; and a connector configured to provide fluid orelectrical communication with the linear element along a connector axis,the connector positioned such that the connector axis is aligned withthe pivot axis. 23.-66. (canceled)
 67. The reel assembly of claim 22,further comprising a first connector connected to the frame, the firstconnector configured to provide fluid or electrical communication withthe linear element along a first connector axis non-parallel to therotational axis.
 68. The reel assembly of claim 67, further comprising asecond connector configured to provide fluid or electrical communicationwith the linear element along a second connector axis parallel to therotational axis.
 69. The reel assembly of claim 68, further comprising aconduit having a first end portion connected to the first connector anda second end portion connected to the second connector, at least aportion of the conduit extending non-parallel relative to the firstconnector axis, the conduit being bent so as to pass through or aroundthe mounting portion of the frame to provide fluid or electricalcommunication between the first and second connectors
 70. The reelassembly of claim 20, further comprising a connector configured toprovide fluid or electrical communication with the linear element alonga connector axis, the connector positioned such that the connector axisis aligned with the pivot axis.
 71. The reel assembly of claim 20,further comprising a spooling support coupled with the frame and offsetfrom the spool drum along the transverse axis, the spooling supportconfigured to translate along a spooling support axis generally parallelto and offset from the rotational axis